Spencer Fano Could Solve 3 Eagles Problems With 1 Pick

The Safest Pick in the Draft

Every year, draft analysts identify the safest pick in the first round — the player who, regardless of scheme or situation, is going to be a productive NFL starter. In 2026, that player is Spencer Fano.

Fano should be a top 10 pick based on talent alone. But his arms measured small at the combine, and if teams view him strictly as a tackle, that measurement could push him down boards. Way down. Potentially to pick 23.

The Eagles would be getting a steal.

Three Problems, One Player

Here's what makes Fano special: he's not just a tackle. He can play guard. He can play center. He can play anywhere on the offensive line at an NFL level.

If Landon Dickerson's body breaks down — and his restructure this offseason raises legitimate health red flags — Fano slides inside to guard. If Cam Jurgens struggles at center, Fano can play there too. If Lane Johnson retires after next season, Fano is the tackle of the future.

Even if Fano "fails" at tackle in the NFL, he's going to be a great guard. That's the definition of a low-risk, high-floor pick.

The Stoutland Factor

The elephant in the room for any Eagles offensive line discussion is the departure of Jeff Stoutland, arguably the best OL coach in football for the last decade. Chris Kuper inherits a unit with question marks, and his track record with developing mid-round talent is less established.

Drafting Fano gives Kuper a player who might not need much development. The athleticism and versatility are already there. You're not asking a new coach to turn a project into a starter — you're giving him a ready-made NFL lineman.

The Eagles' Wishlist

The Eagles love Blake Miller and Monroe Freeling as offensive line targets in the first round. Both are legitimate options at 23. But Fano's versatility makes him the most valuable pick in this class for a team that needs to prepare for life after multiple current starters.

Edge rusher is the sexy pick at 23. But offensive line might be the smart one. And in Howie Roseman's building, smart usually wins.